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Computer Games and Socio-Cultural Play: An Activity Theoretical Perspective

Ang, Chee Siang (2010) Computer Games and Socio-Cultural Play: An Activity Theoretical Perspective. Games and Culture, 5 (3). (doi:10.1177/1555412009360411) (The full text of this publication is not currently available from this repository. You may be able to access a copy if URLs are provided) (KAR id:25158)

The full text of this publication is not currently available from this repository. You may be able to access a copy if URLs are provided.
Official URL:
https://doi.org/10.1177/1555412009360411

Abstract

Various forms of play emerge around computer games. These types of play, known as out-of-game play or extrinsic play, take place beyond the original game context. Despite their significant contribution to the overall play experience, they are often neglected by the game research community. Conventional game theories such as ludology and narratology do not provide an insightful account of the socio-cultural aspects of game play. Therefore, in this article, we report our observations and investigations into different forms of extrinsic play activities in an online virtual setting. Founded on Activity Theory, we articulate theoretical models that explicate game play in a socio-cultural context. Our findings reveal that extrinsic play constitutes reflective play and expansive play, which transform the play activity and transport the players beyond the original boundary of play.

Item Type: Article
DOI/Identification number: 10.1177/1555412009360411
Uncontrolled keywords: Activity theory, computer games, extrinsic play, socio-cultural play
Subjects: Q Science > QA Mathematics (inc Computing science) > QA 76 Software, computer programming, > QA76.9.H85 Human computer interaction
Divisions: Divisions > Division of Computing, Engineering and Mathematical Sciences > School of Engineering and Digital Arts
Depositing User: J. Harries
Date Deposited: 29 Jul 2010 09:18 UTC
Last Modified: 09 Mar 2023 11:32 UTC
Resource URI: https://kar.kent.ac.uk/id/eprint/25158 (The current URI for this page, for reference purposes)

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